QuestionI have a 2001 BMW 530i and need to replace the valve cover gasket. The dealer said it would cost approx. $400. From my research, the gasket parts are only about $50-60 including the sealing washers; I will need to double check though. Do you have any advice whether I can do this myself or should I let a mechanic replace the valve gasket. Any help and/or instructions would be appreciated.
Thanks.
Reggie
AnswerHi Reggie,
It does not need a rocket scientist to replace a valve cover gasket. But you need tools, patience, elbow-grease, brains plus common-sense to do it.
First buy the valve cover gaskets (this should be the whole set which includes the large perimeter gasket and the gaskets that go around the sparkplug areas. Buy the sealing washers too.
Then have the following tools on hand--- flat screwdriver, sparkplug remover,
one fourth ratchet with 2 extensions (2 inches and 4 inches or 6 inches)), 8 mm socket, 10 mm socket, 11 mm socket
Step-by-step instructions:
1) remove upper engine covers (engine and intake manifold covers)
2) unplug ignition cable connectors
3) remove ignition coils
4) re-route various wires and cables in preparation for removal of valve cover
5) blow air into spark plugs to remove oil or dirt which may drop inside the piston area, then remove plugs
6) proceed to remove all bolts/nuts holding cover
7) remove cover, remove gaskets/seals, clean, replace seals and gaskets and re-install carefully making sure that the seals and gaskets are in their proper places (you may need a mirror to see around the valve cover).
8) While you are supposed to torque the nuts and bolts to the proper torque settings, you can just use your common sense and tighten them tight but without stripping screws or nuts, or flattening seals to the point of bulging out from the washers.
You can do the above or have a mechanic do it for you. Both would be cheaper than having a dealer do it (but of course the dealer would usually do a better job).
Tino
